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# F A L L I N T O L E A R N I N G

LIFELONG LEARNING

Fall Semester 2026

WHAT IS RUI UNIVERSITY? RUI University is a multifaceted curriculum that promotes purposeful living. The program supports intellectual wellness by allowing residents to critically think and examine topics from a variety of disciplines. Residents engage with peers and visitors in discourse and work through questions collaboratively.

CLASSES Taught by RUI University Fellows and tailored to our residents’ interests. Class subjects include history, music, ﬁne arts, culinary, wine, horticulture, environmental sustainability, and more.

LEARNING LABS Activities that build upon class subjects. Learning labs engage all different types of learning styles: visual, auditory, kinesthetic, reading, and writing.

OUR CLASSES ARE FREE + OPEN TO THE PUBLIC

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#FallIntoLearning Dear Residents, Family, and Guests, At RUI University, Fall is a season to reconnect, rediscover, and learn something new. This semester, Fall into Learning invites residents, families, friends, and members of the greater community to experience thought-provoking classes, cultural traditions, and signature events designed to inspire curiosity and connection. Our Fall curriculum brings lifelong learning to life through engaging discussions, expert perspectives, history, science, and shared experiences. Whether exploring a new subject, exchanging ideas, or simply enjoying the experience of learning together, RUI University offers something for every curious mind. In September, we celebrate National Assisted Living Week (NALW), honoring the vibrant lives, stories, and connections that make our communities special. October explores Forensics & Justice: Science, Society & Truth, examining cuttingedge forensic technologies and the evolving intersection of science and justice, alongside our signature Oktoberfest celebration. In November, Legacy of Service explores the history, impact, and stories of our nation’s veterans as we commemorate Veterans Day, gather for our signature Fall Festival, and celebrate the gratitude and togetherness of Thanksgiving. We warmly invite residents, families, friends, and members of the greater community to #FallIntoLearning with RUI University. Come for a class, discover a new perspective, and experience the connection that makes lifelong learning meaningful at every stage of life. Warmest regards, The RUI University Team

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FINE ARTS Abundant Days Art Therapy Class September 8, 2026 at 3:00 PM October 13, 2026 at 3:00 PM November 10, 2026 at 3:00 PM Celebrate creativity & self-expression in this uplifting art class designed to inspire joy & connection. Explore a variety of aristic mediums & techniques in a relaxed, supportive environment. Whether you're a seasoned artists or just beginning, every day is an opportunity to create something meaningful and beautiful. Let your imagination flourish! Abundant Days is a family-owned organization dedicated to creating meaningful and engaging experiences for older adults in both Assisted Living and Memory Care. Led by professionals with backgrounds in gerontology, psychology, senior living, dementia education, and therapeutic engagement, their programs incorporate music, movement, creativity, sensory experiences, and meaningful connection, celebrating individual abilities while promoting cognitive engagement, self-expression, social connection, physical and emotional wellness, and overall quality of life.

Fluid Art Class October 15, 2026 at 2:00 PM November 15, 2026 at 2:00 PM In this class, each student will make a one of a kind abstract painting. As you experiment, you’ll find that with each different color combinations and tools, each peice tells its own storycapturing a moment in time that is both personal and universal. At the end of the session, everyone will leave with a masterpiece that reflects their individual style and creativity ready to be proudly displayed at home or shared with loved ones. Sandra Dee Jennings is a retired legal assistant with the State of Virginia. She now own Fluid Art Expressions, and has been teaching fluid art classes in Central Virginia for over two years. Having always loved and appreciated all kinds of art, she’s a self taught artist that enjoys sharing fluid art techniques that she has learned along the way. Register for classes online at TheWestmontAtShortPumpByRUI.com/rui-university or by calling 804.495.8880 1

LIVE ENTERTAINMENT The American Sound 2 Join us for this exciting, interactive series on the music of the 1960's, hosted by Josh Urban.

The Rat Pack September 1, 2026 at 11:00 AM Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, Sammy Davis Jr., and the rest of the gang were the sound of suave. Explore the music and lives of the pack who helped shaped the idea of cool.

The Country Twang October 6, 2026 at 11:00 AM Johnny, Merle, Buck, George, and more. Put on your boots, it's time to go 60's country.

The Swingin' Sixties November 3, 2026 at 11:00 AM Can you dig the sounds of Miles, John, and Herbie? Jazz goes crazy in the 1960's, and Josh Urban has the scoop.

Josh Urban is a speaker, author, host, and syndicated columnist, and ultimately, a storyteller. Sometimes he uses words, written and spoken. Sometimes it's a guitar, or a telescope on a starry night, voyaging across the light years. A lifelong student of natural history and trained as a rock musician, Josh aims to bring Life to his audiences, and his listeners to life.

MUSIC Piano Lessons September 9, 2026 at 2:00 PM October 14, 2026 at 2:00 PM November 11, 2026 at 2:00 PM Roll in Enchanting Piano Lessons! Discover the joy of music with piano classes designed especially for Adults & Seniors. Whether you're touching the keys for the first time or returning after years away, these lessons offer a warm, encouraging enviroment where you can grow at your own pace. What You'll Learn: Sight Reading Skills, Repertoire Development, Beginners Piano Instruction & Finger Dexterity & Technique. Jwarkita Curry, dedicated instructor, leads these enchanting piano lessons with a passion for music and a deep understanding of her students’ unique needs. Her approach is not just about teaching notes and scales; it’s about fostering a genuine connection with the instrument and unlocking the therapeutic benefits of music.

WILDLIFE Scaly Tails RVA September 16, 2026 at 10:30 AM An hour presentation that brings a medley of fascinating reptiles straight to you. Designed for maximum fun and learning, this hands-on experience provides residents with the unique opportunity to interact with these captivating creatures. We don't just bring the excitement, we also bring education! Sara and Brandon Snead’s reptile journey began with a single snake, sparking a fascination that has since grown into a thriving family of over a dozen diverse scaly friends. What started as a curiosity has transformed into a passion for learning everything there is to know about these remarkable creatures. They've enjoyed every moment of this learning journey, especially sharing their newfound knowledge with their children.

PET THERAPY Pet Visits with Beagles & Bentleys September 13, 2026 at 10:00 AM Meet the furry friends and wagging tails of Short Pump! These locals from the Beagles and Bentleys animal rescue can't wait to meet everyone to get lots of snuggles and pets during this pet therapy session. Beagles and Bentleys is dedicated to helping dogs in need find loving homes. We primarily rescue dogs in Virginia and surrounding states, and are 100% volunteer based. Established in Richmond, Virginia in July 2021, its mission is to pair deserving dogs with loving families, to help educate dog owners and to help provide medical support to dogs in need.

HORTICULTURE Designing the Four-Season Perennial Garden September 29, 2026 at 2:00 PM Learn how to Create a perennial garden that feels alive in every season. The most successful planting plans combine spring flowers, summer abundance, autumn color, and winter structure - with foliage, seed heads, bark, and form carrying the display between peak bloom periods. Peggy Singlemann is known nationally as one of the foremost gardening experts, and in Virginia, she has been called the state’s “horticulture star.” Her experience in the field is exceeded only by her infectious enthusiasm and delight in sharing the joy of gardening and knowledge of best practices with all levels of gardeners. For many gardeners, she is a familiar figure as the longtime host and co-producer of Virginia’s only gardening TV show, Virginia Home Grown and Virginia Home Grown Clippings, on Virginia Public Media/PBS.

BUSINESS Avoiding Common Healthcare Scams October 22, 2026 at 11:00 AM This class will cover the most common types of scams affecting seniors and will share ways to prevent, detect, and report those scams before it’s too late. Shawn Smith is the State Director of the Virginia Senior Medicare Patrol program. He leads a team of over 100 staff that educate seniors on fraud prevention. Shawn is also the author of “101 Fraud Tips”, a guide to help seniors protect their money and identify from scammers. In addition to being an author and speaker, Shawn is a life coach, ordained minister, and father, living in Richmond, VA.

SCIENCE Laboratory Leaks & Secret Research Programs by the Military October 15, 2026 at 2:00 PM The cold war was littered with secret testing programs by the U.S., Russia, Japan & China, leading to interesting lines of evidence (and consporacy theories) about even things like Lyme disease being a secret government program. In this class we will do an overview of these programs and some interesting modern day theories related to these that have been in the news. Dr. Christopher Ehrhardt is a professor in the Department of Forensic Science at VCU. He earned his Ph.D. in Environmental Sciences at the University of California at Santa Barbara before working at the FBI Laboratory in Quantico VA within the Counterterrorism and Forensic Science Research Unit and the National Security Directorate at Pacific Northwest National Laboratory. At VCU he leads a research lab on developing new methods for processing DNA evidence and teaches a range of courses covering microbial forensics, the history of biological and chemical terrorism, and forensic chemistry. Register for classes online at TheWestmontAtShortPumpByRUI.com/rui-university or by calling 804.495.8880 6

HISTORY Congregating Faith September 22, 2026 at 10:30 AM This presentation shares stories of Richmond’s religious landmarks – from St. John’s Church to Congregation Beth Ahabah – and their evolution over time. Learn about how the Virginia Statute of Religious Freedom, passed in 1786, made Richmond a sanctuary for religious dissent and diversity and explore the evolving faith communities in Richmond today.

Richmond Style: Fashion Rewind October 7, 2026 at 10:30 AM Drawing from the Valentines Robust Costume & Textiles collection, explore the stories of local designers, retailers and style icons. From Fannie Criss Payne to Sara Sue, learn about Richmon's long history of retail , craftsmanship and creativity.

Faces of Freedom, Stories of Service November 18, 2026 at 10:30 AM Throught a series of striking photographs by Mark Mitchell, witness the stories of Richmonders who have served in conflicts from World War II to the present day. Hear stories of joy and sorrow, prosperity & sacrifice from diverse Richmond veterans.

The mission of the Valentine is to engage, educate, and challenge a diverse audience by collecting, preserving, and interpreting Richmond’s history.The Valentine is the place for people to gather in a common pursuit of understanding and truth. This truth is found in our research and collections, our exhibitions and programs, and in our commitment to honest dialogue and discovery.The Valentine also remains committed to telling new and untold stories that fully recognize the diverse history of the region and to building accessibility into exhibitions and programming.

RUINFORMED Calling All Weather Geeks Age Well Series September 16, 2026 at 4:00 PM Explore the fascinating science behind the weather that shapes our everyday lives. Calling All Weather Geeks features Nicholas Fillo and Amanda Sava of NOAA’s National Weather Service, who will take residents and families behind the forecast to discover how weather is observed, predicted, and communicated. From changing conditions to severe-weather awareness, this engaging conversation offers a closer look at the science, technology, and expertise that help us better understand the atmosphere around us.

The Art of Science and Culinary Cuisine Age Well Series October 21, 2026 at 4:00 PM Discover where creativity, chemistry, and cuisine meet in The Art of Science and Culinary Cuisine, featuring Matthew Deacon, RUI Corporate Director of Culinary Operations. This engaging session explores the science behind the foods we enjoy—from how ingredients interact and cooking techniques transform flavor and texture to the artistry that turns a meal into an experience. Residents and families will gain a fresh perspective on the fascinating relationship between culinary innovation, science, and the senses.

Resilience and Renewal Age Well Series November 18, 2026 at 4:00 PM What helps us remain strong, adaptable, and engaged as we age? Resilience and Renewal, featuring Mark Cifarelli, PT, Director of Clinical Practice for Legacy Healthcare Services, explores the connection between physical resilience, movement, recovery, and maintaining independence throughout the aging journey. Residents and families will discover practical insights for supporting mobility, confidence, and overall well-being while embracing renewal as an important part of aging well.

CULINARY Heirloom Recipes & Culinary Heritage September 23, 2026 at 3:00 PM Celebrate the stories, traditions, and memories preserved through food. Residents will explore how treasured family recipes connect generations, reflect cultural heritage, and strengthen identity while sharing personal recipes and contributing to a community cookbook.

Soups, Stews & Seasonal Roots October 25, 2026 at 3:00 PM Explore the comforting flavors of autumn through Butternut Squash Soup, Hungarian Goulash, and Braised Leeks. Residents will discover how seasonal ingredients, slow-cooking traditions, and warming foods support nourishment and wellness while sharing memories of favorite fall dishes.

Gratitude & Gathering: Celebrating Together November 28, 2026 at 3:00 PM Discover how food, gratitude, and tradition bring people together around the table. Featuring elevated holiday classics such as Sage Stuffing and Cranberry Chutney, residents will explore the connection between shared meals, emotional wellness, and meaningful traditions while reflecting on the foods and gatherings they cherish most.

CULINARY:UNCORKED Lobsters, Wineries & Foods of New England: Coastal Wines & Harvest Stories September 22, 2026 at 3:00 PM Journey through New England’s emerging wine country, where cool coastal climates, local agriculture, and harvest traditions shape distinctive wines. Residents will explore cold-climate winemaking, discover regional grape varieties, and consider how seafood, seasonal foods, and storytelling connect wine to a sense of place.

Germany & Austria: Rieslings and Fall Gold — Harvest Traditions & Noble Grapes October 27, 2026 at 3:00 PM Travel through the celebrated vineyards of Germany and Austria to discover the remarkable range of Riesling and Grüner Veltliner. Residents will explore how cool climates, vineyard slopes, acidity, and harvest timing influence wines from crisp and dry to beautifully balanced sweet styles while discovering the autumn traditions that surround the European wine harvest.

France: Burgundy & Beaujolais — Gratitude in the Glass November 24, 2026 at 3:00 PM Experience two distinctive expressions of French wine culture through Burgundy and neighboring Beaujolais. Residents will compare elegant Pinot Noir and expressive Gamay while exploring terroir, centuries-old winemaking traditions, and the connection between wine, food, and place. A seasonal focus on gratitude invites reflection on the people, traditions, and shared experiences behind every glass.

HEALTH Breath of Life: Lung Vitality & Calm September 18, 2026 at 2:00 PM Discover the powerful connection between breath, movement, and well-being. Breath of Life: Lung Vitality & Calm explores how healthy breathing supports energy, endurance, posture, and relaxation. Residents will learn how mindful breathing, gentle movement, and everyday habits can support lung health while using the breath as a practical tool for greater calm, focus, and vitality.

From the Ground Up: Foot & Balance Elegance October 16, 2026 at 2:00 PM Confident movement begins with a strong foundation. From the Ground Up: Foot & Balance Elegance explores the important role our feet, ankles, posture, and senses play in balance and mobility. Residents will discover practical strategies for supporting foot health, improving stability, choosing supportive footwear, and strengthening balance to promote safer, more confident movement in everyday life.

Grace in Motion: Joyful Rhythms of Dance November 20, 2026 at 2:00 PM Experience the joy of movement while discovering why dance is a powerful form of wholeperson fitness. Grace in Motion: Joyful Rhythms of Dance explores how music and rhythmic movement can support cardiovascular health, balance, coordination, memory, and emotional well-being. Residents will discover how dance—whether seated, standing, or simply moving to a favorite song—can encourage self-expression, social connection, and a joyful approach to lifelong wellness.

SIT BACK, RELAX, + TUNE-IN to our monthly educational webinars where we bring in new subject-matter experts each month to share their insight on a variety of topics. Scan the QR code below to register today!

RESOURCE CENTER W W W . R U I . N E T / R E S O U R C E - C E N T E R

Go online to stay up-to-date with our monthly webinars, book recommendations, online resources, and more!

LIFELONG LEARNING

#FallIntoLearning

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